Barwa reveals $5.5b plan for Oryx Island

Barwa reveals $5.5b plan for Oryx Island

Barwa Real Estate Group has confirmed the launch of its new Oryx Island scheme at Cityscape Qatar.

The project, which will reportedly cost around $5.5bn to build, will have five floating hotels, an open-air theatre pavilion, commercial district, leisure areas and various residential options.

Oryx Island has been designed to provide temporary accommodation during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. A series of venues are also planned for spectators to enjoy the football matches from the island.

Using the Arabian Oryx – a white antelope with lengthy horns native to the Arabian Peninsula – as its symbol, the design of the Oryx draws on Al-Maha Island and the natural ecosystem of Qatar. An official document by Barwa reads: “Plans are intended to reflect the ambitions of the young state of Qatar, striding towards upgrading the Qatari community, and pushing it ahead to the ranks of other developed nations.

Also included in the concept designs is a Maritime College with associated pearl hunting school to educate students on local marine life and traditional hunting techniques. The short video released by Barwa shows this college to be located in a spiked dome with cavernous atrium and expansive underwater facilities.

The scheme is currently at the concept design stage and is expected to take seven years to complete once construction has begun.